5 Myths About Labiaplasty

For many women, an enlarged labia minora can lead to difficulty and discomfort in multiple areas of life, including sexual intercourse, daily activities, exercise, and the ability to wear certain clothing. The condition has numerous potential causes, such as genetics, the natural aging process, weight loss, and more. Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure designed to reduce excess tissue and reshape the labia, thus increasing a patient’s quality of life by addressing both aesthetic and functional concerns.

Dr. Andrew Cohen, our board-certified plastic surgeon, is dedicated to helping his patients feel confident and comfortable in their skin. With labiaplasty, he utilizes his own personal technique to produce quality vaginal rejuvenation results. He can also include the procedure in a comprehensive Mommy Makeover.

While labiaplasty can benefit many individuals, there are plenty of myths surrounding the procedure. Below, Dr. Cohen highlights and debunks common labiaplasty misconceptions.

1. Labiaplasty is only a cosmetic procedure.

While labiaplasty can correct cosmetic concerns, the procedure also has medical and functional benefits. Many patients find that they have an easier time engaging in physical activities and wearing clothing such as leggings and swimsuit bottoms following their surgery. Intercourse may feel more comfortable and hygiene issues that developed from excess vaginal tissue may be improved as well.

2. Scars from labiaplasty surgery are obvious.

When performed by a skilled and qualified plastic surgeon like Dr. Cohen, labiaplasty scars should be virtually undetectable. Dr. Cohen takes great care to place incisions in areas that are less noticeable and during the procedure, utilizes the Cohen Ellipse technique. It is a personal approach that involves removing the excess skin while making sure the incision and potential scars are well-hidden.

3. Labiaplasty is painful.

Pain during and after any surgical procedure is a common fear. Many patients pursue labiaplasty because of painful symptoms they are already experiencing, such as irritation and chafing caused by enlarged labia minora tissue. Once an individual opts for labiaplasty, the procedure can be performed with sedation or general anesthesia, meaning patients should not feel pain during the experience. Additionally, over-the-counter pain medication can help manage the discomfort that some patients feel in the early days of their recovery process.

4. Sensation is lost after labiaplasty.

When performed properly, labiaplasty should not result in long-term sensation changes or a decrease in sexual pleasure. Dr. Cohen’s personal labiaplasty technique helps preserve vital structures for sensitivity and feelings. While recovery times can vary, it is recommended that patients hold off from engaging in sexual activity for six to eight weeks.

5. Labiaplasty results will need to be revised following childbirth.

Results from labiaplasty should not have to be redone or corrected following future childbirth. The excess labia tissue that was removed and the reshaped labia should not revert to their previous form due to pregnancy or the birthing process. However, there are situations that could produce changes, including a torn labia minora from childbirth. The timing of labiaplasty surgery will ultimately depend on a patient’s personal needs, aesthetic goals, and individual timeline.

For more information about labiaplasty or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Cohen, contact our office today.